by Joel Blackstock LICSW-S MSW PIP | Sep 1, 2024 | Conspiracy Theories, Cults and Cult Psychology
What was the Jonestown Cult? The Peoples Temple, led by Jim Jones, was a notorious cult that ended in the tragic mass murder-suicide of over 900 of its members in Jonestown, Guyana in 1978. While its shocking end makes it stand out, many of the manipulative tactics...
by Joel Blackstock LICSW-S MSW PIP | Sep 1, 2024 | Conspiracy Theories
The Tragedy of the Branch Davidians: Abuse, Control, and the Perils of Charismatic Leadership Who was David Koresh? The 1993 Waco siege that ended in the fiery deaths of David Koresh and over 70 of his Branch Davidian followers shocked the world. But upon closer...
by Joel Blackstock LICSW-S MSW PIP | Sep 1, 2024 | Conspiracy Theories
The Manson Family Cult: Origins, Influence, and Lessons Stolen and Reappropriated Elements The beliefs and practices of cults often combine unoriginal elements in novel but misguided ways. The Manson Family was no exception, drawing from various psychological models,...
by Joel Blackstock LICSW-S MSW PIP | Jul 1, 2024 | Conspiracy Theories, Depth Psychology Approaches and Techniques, Mystics, Gurus, and Spiritual Philosophers, Psychology of Design and Architecture
The Divided Mind and the Quest for Meaning Part 1 > Part 2 < Part 3 The Misappropriation of Metaphor: How Trauma and Bias Can Distort Our Understanding of Reality Main Ideas and Key Points: The human psyche is shaped by millions of years of...
by Joel Blackstock LICSW-S MSW PIP | Apr 7, 2024 | Phenomenology and Existential Psychology
Who was Pythagoras “No one is free who has not obtained the empire of himself. No man is free who cannot command himself.” ― Pythagoras Pythagoras, a renowned ancient Greek philosopher and mathematician, developed a unique and influential philosophical system that...
by Joel Blackstock LICSW-S MSW PIP | Mar 21, 2024 | Conspiracy Theories, Phenomenology and Existential Psychology
Exploring the Link Between Geschwind Syndrome and the Behaviors of Mystics and Cult Leaders Throughout history, many influential mystics, prophets, preachers, and cult leaders have displayed a distinct set of personality traits and behaviors, including an intense...
by Joel Blackstock LICSW-S MSW PIP | Mar 12, 2024 | Conspiracy Theories, Interviews and Case Studies
In this riveting episode, we delve into the complex world of cults and high control groups with Dr. Janja Lalich, a distinguished professor emeritus and renowned cult expert. Dr. Lalich shares her personal journey from a cult member to a leading authority in the...
by Joel Blackstock LICSW-S MSW PIP | Mar 12, 2024 | Conspiracy Theories, Mystics, Gurus, and Spiritual Philosophers
In this compelling episode of the podcast, we delve deep into the intricacies of the Yoga and Wellness communities with seasoned yoga teachers who have critically observed the industry for over 20 to 30 years. Their unique perspectives shed light on the blend of...